Sony ILCE-QX1 Preview

Sony has announced two new "lens-style" cameras. In an era of ubiquitous smartphone cameras, there an infinite number of photography opportunities... limited by the often-way-too-small images sensors (and no optical zoom capabilities). Enter lens-style cameras which are simply lenses with built-in image sensors, yet no standard display. How do you use them? Easy, you connect your iOS or Android smartphone to the PlayMemories App, turning your smartphone's display into your digicam display to frame shots, adjust zoom, release the camera shutter, start/stop video recordings and control other basic camera settings. New for this year, gridlines for easy framing and "mirror mode" for self portraits.

First up, the Sony the ICLE-QX1 boasts a 20.1 megapixel APS-C size Exmor CMOS sensor paired with the BiONZ X image processor. Together, these features capture just the right amount of texture and detail while reducing noise during low-light scenarios. The QX1 also includes Superior Auto, RAW image shooting, and a pop-up flash.

But the main reason to consider a QX1 is that it's the first lens-series camera to offer interchangeable lens capabilities via an E-series lens mount. Yup, it's a no-lens-included-lens-style camera, so to speak, that works with all E-series lenses as well as Alpha-series lenses should you add an optional A-mount adapter.

Sony ILCE-QX1 Features:

20.1 megapixel APS-C size Exmor CMOS image sensor

BIONZ X image processor

PlayMemories Mobile app (version 5.0)

turns any iOS or Android smartphone into a LCD display

Interchangeable E-Series Lens Mount

Also works with Alpha Series lenses with an optional adapter

Superior Auto

RAW image shooting

Pop-up Flash

Built-in Wi-Fi & NFC

The new QX1 lens-style cameras will be sold for about $400, starting this November (2014), but then you also have purchase an E-series lens.

Additional Product Views

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